BREAKING: Halilhodzic named Japan coach

The former Cote d’Ivoire and Algeria boss has been named Javier Aguirre’s replacement following the latter’s departure in February

Japan have appointed Vahid Halilhodzic as their new national team coach following weeks of speculation regarding his potential appointment.

The Bosnian takes over the reins from Javier Aguirre, who departed in February after Japan’s exit from the Asian Cup, amid match-fixing allegations dating back to his time in charge of Real Zaragoza.

The 62-year-old had been out of work ever since he left his position as Trabzonspor coach in November 2014.

Halilhodzic previously led Algeria to the second round of the World Cup in Brazil last year, before they were beaten 2-1 in extra time by eventual champions Germany.

Former Swansea City manager Michael Laudrup had also been linked with the job, along with ex-Zenit boss Luciano Spalletti, but Halilhodzic has been given the nod and is expected to arrive in Japan on Friday.